This is a delightful short story from renowned French novelist and playwright Honore de Balzac, published in English for the first time In this delightful little volume, Honore de Balzac, the renowned 19th century French novelist and playwright, takes readers on a short fantasy journey to the mystical island of Java where he - or rather the narrateur - encounters a deadly poison-breathing tree, civilized monkeys, a love-sick sparrow, and the epitome of Oriental desirability of the day - the women of Java. Written just before he started work on his magnum opus, "La Comedie Humaine", this wonderful tale was a favorite of Balzac himself, and provides readers with a wonderful glimpse into the depths of the novelist's imagination. Published in English for the first time, this will delight readers.